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Jan 10, 2017

Our Travel Guide to Aruba

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If Aruba is not on your radar for places to visit in 2017, it sure will be after reading this post! This island has so much more to offer than just sandy beaches and sipping cocktails on the shore (which we do love)! So we put together a little travel guide to Aruba to help you navigate your way and not miss a beat on this “One Happy Island!”

Where to stay

The island is home to many amazing hotels but, in our opinion,Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort and Casino is by far the best! Minutes after stepping onto the property we were welcomed with a pink fruity cocktail (need I say more?) and warm towel. Our spacious modern suites had a view of endless palm trees and overlooked the sandy shore and sparkling turquoise water of Palm Beach!

On property, there are plenty of things to keep you busy. Among them, cute local stores, coffee shops and even a casino for those who are feeling lucky. It also boasted a fitness center, a three-level pool with a slide, waterfalls and a swim-up bar (which we thoroughly enjoyed). Further, a luxury spa on site has all the essentials for a romantic and relaxing getaway. There are multiple restaurants throughout the property featuring diverse cuisine. We highly recommend stopping at the Hyatt Regency Mexicado where spicy margaritas and tacos were the way to our hearts! On the hunt for a killer brunch?Hyatt Regency Ruinas del Mar is the place to go!

Where to eat

After hitting up what the hotel has to offer, make sure and dine at these amazing eateries:

Pinchos Grill & Bar – This was by far one of our favorite dinner spots and is so romantic. You sit on the edge of a pier – it feels as though you are dining in the middle of the ocean! Catch this hotspot at sunset, order a cocktail and the shrimp, and be blown away by the island’s beauty!

Taste of Belgium – If you enjoy a contemporary design and atmosphere, you will love this brunch spot! The cozy black and white decor is the perfect way to start your day! We ordered off of the extensive Belgian beer menu and paired the brew with decadent strawberry nutella crepes!

Screaming Eagle – Two words. Lobster bisque. It was to die for! Everything on the menu is amazing and the ambience so unique! There is also the option to book a lounge space where you and your date are served on a cozy reclined couch surrounded by white linens. Needless to say, this is the ultimate date spot!

What to do

We were lucky to experience all the island has to offer with Aruba Tourism. From adventurous outings to restful beach days, the below activities will give you a complete taste of island life. On the first day or night, get your bearings, walk downtown, and enjoy the fun shops and local bars!

If you are an adventurous person, you will love the Private jeep tour toArikok National Park! If you thought Aruba was only beaches, you are in for a surprise! So, jump into a giant jeep and find yourself romping through the gorgeous desert! We took a fun pit stop in the Arikok National Park to enjoy a lovely brunch in between the desert cacti. Then, we piled back into the jeep and ended up in the beautiful oasis of Conchi – the natural pool of Aruba! This spot took our breath away. The seclusion of the oasis (not reachable by car) is what makes this spot so magical. (Attention brides-to-be: it would be an ideal spot to elope ;))

Looking for something more relaxing? We recommend a private yoga session atManchebo Resort and Spa. The location is beachfront with nothing but palm trees, a salty breeze and the sound of crashing waves to distract you. Our instructor was great and it was the perfect way to meditate and enjoy the outdoors!

Now, for something everyone will enjoy! Have a refreshing cocktail on the deck of the Red Sail Sports boat and soak in the ocean views! Careful – the boat takes frequent stops for a fun dip in the water. Oftentimes, Brides and grooms will even jump overboard in a romantic trash the dress tradition! After a bit of swimming, relax on the deck as you dry, turn on the tunes and boogie back to the mainland!

If you’re visiting the island for a bachelorette party, House of Mosaic is the place to go with the girls! They host murder mystery parties where you are transported to an Alice In Wonderland-like world. Forest vibes, wine glasses bigger than life itself, buff butlers and whimsical characters make this the perfect spot to celebrate with your girl friends! Good times guaranteed.

Aruba is the ideal destination for a fun getaway, honeymoon or destination wedding or even! No matter the occasion, pairing with Aruba Tourism to visit this tropical paradise is the way to go! Here is a peek into our adventure!